I have been behind the wheel of the redesigned 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross this week, a compact SUV that is intended to rival the RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and others.
Powertrain
Under the sculpted hood, you find a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with a turbo that is putting out a somewhat paltry 152-horses, but it does produce 184-pound feet of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission that you can somewhat control with large shift paddles on the steering column. My review vehicle is all-wheel drive, but it comes in two-wheel as well.
Exterior
I will say I was impressed with the exterior looks of this SUV. The front end looks unlike any of the many others on the market, Mitsubishi has really stepped it up in the wheel department, and the rear lights and spoiler set it off.
The body lines from the side view are unique, but it all works. Overall, Mitsu designers did a super job making you take notice of this SUV, especially in the Red Diamond color.
Credit: Mitsubishi.
Interior
Equally impressive is the light grey interior that has slightly bolstered power seats that have light stitching. The gauge cluster is easy to see, though not fancy, and in the middle is a driver info center that offers minimal information.
I do like the steering wheel with controls that has gloss black along the bottom and has a good feel to the touch.
A look to the right center, up high, is a touchscreen that is smaller than I typically like, and not as colorful, but it does the job. You control audio, the navigation system, Bluetooth, vehicle settings, you can add apps, and you get Apple Carplay and Android auto also.
Utility
Back seat headroom will be good for people under 6-feet tall and legroom is normal for a compact SUV. Cargo area in the rear is fine too, with 50-cubic feet of storage with the back seats folded down. There is a real spare tire underneath, and a little lip in the rear to keep things from rolling out.
Verdict
I am reviewing the SEL trim, which is the top-of-the-line. It is really quite well-equipped.
2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
- What I liked most: The interior and exterior looks.
- What I would change: More horsepower & better sound deadening.
- MSRP: Base price $28,995As equipped: $34,670
- Fuel Economy:Rated at 25 in town/26 highway/25 overall.
- Official Color: Red Diamond.
- Odometer reading when tested: 1,400 miles.
- Weight: 3,505 pounds
- Spare Tire: Temporary spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 179” long/71.1” wide/66.5” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 gallons with the on the driver’s side.
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 pounds.
- 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross in a few words:It is a good start for Mitsubishi, but they’ve still got a way to go.
- Final Assembly Location: Okazaki, Japan.
- Manufacturers website: www.MitsubishiCars.com
- Warranty: 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper, 10-years/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, 5-years & unlimited mileage of roadside assistance.
- Next Up:2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe.
Credit: Mitsubishi.
